Butternut squash pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with a creamy, savory sauce. It’s a perfect meal for cozy evenings when you’re craving something hearty yet wholesome. The creamy texture from the squash pairs beautifully with al dente penne pasta, creating a dish that is both filling and satisfying. The addition of garlic and Grana Padano cheese adds layers of depth, making every bite a delightful experience.
This dish is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty vegetarian meal, and its simplicity makes it perfect for busy weeknights. The butternut squash adds a boost of nutrition, while the vegetable stock brings out a rich, savory flavor. Paired with pasta and a bit of cheese, this recipe becomes a comforting dish for the whole family to enjoy.
Whether you’re a butternut squash lover or new to cooking with this vegetable, this pasta recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s an ideal dish for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Deliciously Creamy
The roasted butternut squash transforms into a naturally creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully, providing a rich texture without any heavy cream.
2. Quick and Easy
This recipe comes together quickly with just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, making it perfect for busy nights or a last-minute dinner.
3. Full of Flavor
The combination of garlic, Grana Padano cheese, and vegetable stock creates a depth of flavor that balances the sweetness of the squash, making every bite irresistible.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
Butternut squash pasta can easily be made in larger batches, and the leftovers taste just as good the next day, making it a great option for meal prepping.
5. Healthy and Nutritious
Butternut squash is full of vitamins and antioxidants, and with the addition of whole-grain pasta, this dish offers a balanced, nourishing meal that’s also filling.
Ingredients
- Butternut squash, diced small
- Garlic, minced
- Vegetable stock, dissolved in boiling water
- Grana Padano cheese, grated
- Penne pasta
- Olive oil
Variations
- Add Protein: For a heartier dish, you can add grilled chicken, sausage, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Swap the Pasta: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini.
- Use Different Cheese: Substitute Grana Padano with Parmesan or Pecorino for a slightly different flavor.
- Roast Vegetables: For added flavor, roast some onions or carrots along with the butternut squash.
How to Make Butternut Squash Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and dice the butternut squash into small cubes. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet with the garlic. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring to a simmer. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the squash slightly, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the squash sauce. Toss everything together, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Sprinkle in the grated Grana Padano cheese and stir to combine, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the pasta immediately, topped with extra cheese if desired and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Perfectly Roasted Squash: Make sure to spread the butternut squash cubes out on a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure they roast evenly.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more vegetable stock or pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Cheese Options: If you don’t have Grana Padano, Parmesan works just as well for the creamy finish.
- Flavor Boosters: Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs wonderfully with the squash.
How to Serve
This butternut squash pasta is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor. For an extra indulgence, pair it with a glass of white wine such as Chardonnay.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover butternut squash pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the pasta for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable stock or water to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or farfalle.
2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative, and substitute olive oil for any butter in the recipe.
3. How do I make the sauce creamier?
To make the sauce even creamier, you can blend the butternut squash and stock mixture using an immersion blender or regular blender.
4. Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, frozen butternut squash works well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before using.
5. What can I add to make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper while sautéing the garlic.
6. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Roasted bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms would be great additions to this pasta dish.
7. Can I substitute the vegetable stock with chicken stock?
Yes, if you’re not vegetarian, chicken stock can be substituted for a richer flavor.
8. Can I make this dish without roasting the squash?
Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness and deepens the flavor. However, you can sauté the squash cubes in a pan if you’re short on time.
9. How can I add more protein to this dish?
You can add cooked chicken, turkey, or beans like chickpeas to boost the protein content of the dish.
10. Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
Conclusion
Butternut squash pasta is a comforting, creamy, and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. The combination of roasted butternut squash, garlic, and Grana Padano cheese creates a rich, satisfying sauce that perfectly complements penne pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing a meal for guests, this dish is sure to impress. With its flexibility and delicious taste, Butternut Squash Pasta is bound to become a regular in your cooking rotation!